Note below the addition of new fare codes that Carnival is introducing; some of these new codes have non-refundable deposits, non-refundable cruise fares, change fees, and 'guarantee' cabins.

I can definitely see how this is going to be very confusing, especially for first-time cruisers and especially if they're trying to book online with no one to explain anything to them. The advertised rates are going to be the best possible rate, but may not be what the cruiser wants - the explanations are going to be very long and difficult for some to understand since they may have several prices to choose from.

I think they will be confusing as well. Especially the new ones that are non-refundable. I would recommend some travel insurance for those as one never knows what can happen. I also agree that new cruisers using online booking may not understand these new fares.

I dont fully understand them myself yet and I am a seasoned cruiser. My thinking is you may be able to save a few dollars at the risk of losing your deposit or cruise altogher. To me its not worth it. With all these new fares it will really make sense to use a reliable and intelligent travel agent. I feel bad for the PVP's that will be slammed with calls. They will no doubt get confused and offer wrong info from time to time. No thanks.

__________________
1995-Jubilee
1996-Imagination
1998-Destiny
1999-Paradise
1999-Sun Princess
2002-Pride
2004-Pride
2006-Pride
2008-Valor and Glory
2009-Spirit and Splendor
2010-Freedom of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas
2010-Carnival Spirit
2011-Carnival Dream
2012-Allure of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas

These new fare codes can be VERY confusing and yes, agents have been extremely busy explaining all of them to everyone. Definitely making our job harder.

The thing that irritates me is that Carnival is touting this as a way to make it easier for agents. Don't know who they're talking to, but all the agents I've talked to hate these new codes. I can understand why they want the new codes as a way to entice cruisers, but there are better ways to do it without creating all the confusion.

For new cruisers, it really gets confusing because they'll go onto the Carnival website (or some other website for that matter) and see a rate. They'll think it's a good deal, but not knowing all the restrictions associated with it. And of course if they want something specific, like connecting cabins for a family, they can't book some of the fare codes since a couple only provide 'guarantee' cabins.

Now you begin to understand why alot of agents I know are pushing clients away from Carnival. They simply do not want all the hassles and problems Carnival has imposed. And their new group policies have really made it a huge hassle to do business with them.

Hubby ... DIAMOND (every ship except the Carnivale)
Me ... DIAMOND (every ship starting with the Tropicale)
20 year old son ... DIAMOND (every ship starting with the Tropicale...he is the only DOUBLE Milestone under the age of 21)
24 year old son ... DIAMOND

bring back the 1A. as a solo traveler it seems to me they are thinking a solo can and will jump on the new codes that have high penalties since we may be a bit more flexible with our plans. i'm not thrilled with them.